Week 3 Reading Notes

1.) Introduction to Linux

Originally computers were extremely large, expensive, and each had a different operating system. In 1969 Bell Labs began designing an operating system that could be used on different computers, UNIX. As computers became more available to the public Linus Torvalds worked to create a more freely available academic version of UNIX. The system gradually became known as Linux. Linux is used on a scale as large as the German army and as small as a PDA. In the beginning one needed to be an expert before they could use Linux, now one can log in graphically and a thorough understanding of the system is no longer a requirement for using it. A very important part of Linux is that it is free in terms of money and in terms of open source. Following the guidelines set for free distribution, one can change and improve Linux. Additionally, GNU tools set a standard for using the system. The amount of variations can be overwhelming for new users to try to choose a distribution, but there is help on the Internet in choosing one that is right for you. Section 1.5.3 has advice on which distribution to choose depending on your hardware and needs. Though there are many distributions, they are mainly similar with only slight variations.

2.) Mac OS X

Mac's operating system OS X (X stands for the Roman numeral for 10) was built on technologies developed before NeXT run by Steve Jobs was bought by Apple in the 1990s. OS X was built with UNIX kernel, and Mac released their operating system called Darwin as open source. The latest version of OS X, the Snow Leopard, was released August 28, 2009. Honestly, I found both Mac articles to be very confusing as I am not familiar with most terminology. The Linux and Windows articles were much easier for someone with limited knowledge of computers to understand.

3.) An Update on the Windows Roadmap

This article is a letter to Microsoft Windows customers, addressing some of their questions and concerns. The first concern addressed deals with the plans for Windows XP. Bill Veghte (Senior VP for Microsoft) says that although Windows XP won't be available for purchase as of June 30, 2008 as a retail package consumers will still be able to purchase PCs with Windows XP and Windows XP support will be available through 2014. Veghte also addressed concerns about Windows Vista. Customers have expressed concerns about security and compatibility, particularly gaming. Microsoft has come out with a few service packs that help resolve some of these issues, and are keeping track of customer needs to create a better product that meets people's needs. Veghte also writes about Windows 7 which is due to be released in 2010. They are using the lessons they have previously learned to make Windows 7 an improvement on Vista.